In what situations are Wirewound Resistors better than Film Resistors for precision?

Wirewound Resistors are made by winding a metal wire (usually nichrome) around a ceramic core. This process creates a precision resistor that can handle high power loads and has good temperature stability.

 

In What Situations are Wirewound Resistors Better than Film Resistors for Precision?

If you're in the market for a precision resistor, you may be wondering whether to choose a wirewound or film resistor. While both resistors have their pros and cons, there are certain situations where Wirewound Resistors are better than Film Resistors for precision. In this article, we'll discuss when you should choose Wirewound Resistors over Film Resistors.

What are Wirewound Resistors and Film Resistors?

Before we dive into the differences between the two, let's first define what Wirewound Resistors and Film Resistors are.

Wirewound Resistors are made by winding a metal wire (usually nichrome) around a ceramic core. This process creates a precision resistor that can handle high power loads and has good temperature stability.

Film Resistors, on the other hand, are made by coating a ceramic or plastic substrate with a thin layer of metal film. This process creates a low-cost resistor that can handle low to medium power loads but has poor temperature stability.

Now that you understand the basics of Wirewound Resistors and Film Resistors, let's discuss when you should choose Wirewound Resistors over Film Resistors for precision.

 

 

When Should you Choose Wirewound Resistors for Precision?

1. High Power Applications

Wirewound Resistors are a better choice for high power applications. The wire used to make Wirewound Resistors has a higher melting point than the metal film used in Film Resistors. This means that Wirewound Resistors can handle higher power loads without burning out.

2. Temperature Stability

Wirewound Resistors have better temperature stability than Film Resistors. This is because the metal wire in Wirewound Resistors has a very low temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR). This means that the resistance of Wirewound Resistors changes very little with changes in temperature.

3. Precision Tolerance

Wirewound Resistors have a precision tolerance that is often better than Film Resistors. This means that Wirewound Resistors will have a more accurate resistance value than Film Resistors, making them a better choice for precision applications.

4. Customization

Wirewound Resistors are more customizable than Film Resistors. They can be made to specific resistance values and power ratings, making them a better choice for custom applications.

When Should you Choose Film Resistors for Precision?

While Wirewound Resistors are often a better choice for precision, there are certain situations where Film Resistors may be a better option. Here are a few reasons why you may choose Film Resistors for precision:

1. Low-Cost

Film Resistors are less expensive than Wirewound Resistors. This makes them a better choice for low-cost applications where precision isn't as important.

2. Low to Medium Power Applications

Film Resistors are better suited for low to medium power applications. They don't have the high power handling capabilities of Wirewound Resistors but can still handle a decent amount of power.

3. Low TCR

While Wirewound Resistors have a very low TCR, Film Resistors can also have a low TCR if they are made with special materials. This means that Film Resistors can have good temperature stability in certain situations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Wirewound Resistors are a better choice for precision in high power applications, where temperature stability and precision tolerance are important. Film Resistors may be a better choice for low-cost and low to medium power applications where precision isn't as crucial. If you're not sure which resistor to choose for your application, contact us to speak with one of our experts. We offer a wide selection of Power Wirewound Resistors and Film Resistors and can help you choose the best one for your needs. You can also check out our website for more information on our selection of resistors or to find a supplier near you.

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